Five beauty myths debunked

March 26, 2010 3:55:58 PM PDT

Resolve common everyday skin problems with simple solutions you can start today.

MYTH #1: YOU CAN CHANGE THE SIZE OF A PORE. Basically, that's like saying you can change the color of your eyes! No treatment or product can physically change the size of your pores. However, you can "refine" the overall look of the skin by keeping the pores clean with regular facials and by using the proper exfoliants to sluff off dead cells.

MYTH #2: SUNSCREEN IN A MOISTURIZER OFFERS ENOUGH PROTECTION. If you are going to be indoors all day then that will do, but a simple SPF 15 in a moisturizer does not protect the skin from the UVA and UVB rays of the sun. You need to use a full spectrum SUN BLOCK. I recommend putting it over a moisturizer. It should be at least an SPF 20 for basic daily wear and SPF 30 or over for extended outdoor exposure. There is a reason a block has a bit of a thickness to it and that's because it is supposed to offer protection on the surface of the skin.

MYTH #3: RETIN A IS GOOD FOR ALL SKIN TYPES. While the results of using a retinol product on some skins can be beneficial, I've seen the damage it can do on sensitive skin. Not only that, but people who are active and love to be outdoors (6 hours of golf several days a week, etc. ) should not being using retinols either. Basically, it renders the skin too vulnerable to the environment as it rapidly produces cell turnover bringing new ones to the surface. It's like taking the gentle skin of a baby's behind and exposing it to the sun! There are plenty of effective, non-perscription alternatives on the market. Products with fruit and lactic acids, vitamin C and peptides are all good choices. You will get the benefits of radiant skin without the harsh side effects.

MYTH #4: YOU SHOULDN'T USE MOISTURIZERS IF YOU HAVE OILY/ACNE SKIN. All skin types need moisture. It's a matter of which one you choose. What happens in a case where someone has an oily/acne prone skin is that they over clean the surface of the skin and then don't use any moisturizer. So, what can actually end up happening is that the oil glands get the message to throw out more oil to compensate for this and you can actually make the skin worse. While it is true that you need to keep the skin clean to keep bacteria at bay, applying a light, quick absorbing moisturizer after cleansing will help bring "balance" back to the skin.

MYTH #5: USING ALL NATURAL AND ORGANIC PRODUCTS ARE THE BEST FOR YOUR SKIN. While I am a big fan of "naturally inspired" products, the bigger picture here is this. Rather than focus on "100% Natural" or "Certified Organic" claims, which can be questionable in many cases as these terms are not regulated by the FDA, be on the look out for what should NOT be in your skincare products. MINERAL OILS, PARABENS and PETROLEUMS are the most common ones to look out for. There is no reason these should be in any products?they are just not necessary and can be harmful. That said, I recommend products that have high concentrations of antioxidants, vitamins, botanical and fruit extracts along with effective ingredients such as Hyaluronic Acid and Sodium PCA (great for plumping and holding moisture in the skin).

About Air Repair Skincare line: It's the first natural targeted skincare system to combat flight fatigue and environmental stresses that affect the health of the skin. The products are free of petroleum, mineral oil and parabens. The beauty treatments and skincare line are indicative of comprehensive wellness techniques through non-invasive treatments. Spanek specializes in creating individually customized regimes designed to enhance overall health and well-being - with a primary focus on skin vitality. Embracing Spanek's long term philosophy that beauty comes from within, she draws from centuries-old European traditions and today's cutting edge products - such as the patented and acclaimed Air Repair Skincare brand. Website: http://www.airrepairskincare.com

About Visage Studio: Visage offers customized skincare treatments, expert make-up applications and instruction, preventative aging practices and more. The Air Repair Skincare line enhances and support the foundation and services along with a complete line of additional exclusive and natural skincare and beauty products. Treatments and products are available at Visage Studio, specialty retail outlets and online. Website: http://visagestudio.com